Lake of Stars partners with REIAMA for sustainable 2025 festival

22 Aug 2025 - 12:28

Published under the Creative Commons Licence

The Lake of Stars Festival in Malawi has announced a new partnership with the Renewable Energy Industries Association of Malawi (REIAMA) as part of efforts to make the event more environmentally sustainable.

The move follows the festival’s recognition by UNESCO in July in its report.

The collaboration will introduce a green energy strategy for the three-day festival, scheduled to take place at Fish Eagle Bay Lodge in Nkhotakota, from 17 to 19 October.

The move follows the festival’s recognition by UNESCO in July in its report Creating for the Future: Harnessing Southern Africa’s Arts and Cultural Festivals for Sustainable Development. The study highlighted Lake of Stars as an example of how cultural events can empower communities, support gender inclusion, strengthen local economies and contribute to climate resilience.

Earlier this year, festival organisers represented Malawi at the UNESCO Arts Roundtable during the MTN Bushfire Festival in eSwatini, where they discussed how creative programming can advance the Sustainable Development Goals.

Through the partnership with REIAMA, the 2025 edition of Lake of Stars will introduce renewable energy solutions, including solar-powered stages, energy-efficient lighting, electric water pumps for campsite showers, electric vehicles and improved waste management systems.

“Lake of Stars is the global event attracting audiences all over the world, it is such a great opportunity to collaborate with and together raise the national flag and Renewable Energy Sector in Malawi,” REIAMA president Brave Mhone said. “We are demonstrating that we can transition the event to be powered by clean energy.”

The event, which will be headlined by Malawian folk duo Madalitso Band, was established in 2004. The festival has helped to promote local talent, supported youth development, and influenced perceptions of the country in regional and international media. According to organisers, the 2018 edition contributed an estimated $2 million to the Malawian economy.

The festival has built a reputation for bringing together local and international performers across genres and disciplines. In addition to music, the event includes visual arts, storytelling, dance and family-friendly programming. The lakeside setting offers a backdrop for cultural exchange and creative exploration.

Tickets to the festival can be purchased here.